Organize the Fun _ Spontaneity is always fun, but for a preschool birthday, scheduling (with some wiggle room) is the way to go. Try planning activities over a short time span __ 10 to 15_minute intervals. And if you have anything special planned, do it before the cake, a surefire sign that the soiree is winding down. Remember, simple is best when you are dealing with young children with short attention spans, so you want to try to avoid activities where kids have to wait for their turn, especially if there are lots of other kids at the party. Think bubbles, coloring pages, and books, freeze dance or even a craft station, complete with clay, paper, glue and other assorted items that kids can create with. Try to have at least one adult helper for each activity.

Watch the Clock _ If your party is at home, it is important to have a beginning and ending time. Don't leave the party open_ended as it could confuse guests and not allow them to plan for the rest of the day. For parties for kids under 5, figure for about 90 minutes, two hours tops.